May 13, 2020

Canada’s nurses mourn death of London nurse from COVID-19

Media Statement

May 13, 2020 (OTTAWA, ON) – Nurses unions across Canada are devastated to learn that nurse Brian Beattie has died of COVID-19.

Brian was a dedicated registered nurse who worked at Kensington Village, a long-term care home in London, Ontario. He was a member of the Ontario Nurses’ Association and the Canadian Federation of Nurses Unions.

“My heart is breaking for Brian’s family, friends and colleagues, as they grieve the loss of a loved one, friend and co-worker. Canada’s nurses grieve with you,” said Linda Silas, President of the CFNU.

ONA is providing support to Brian’s colleagues and staff, and is working with Ontario’s Ministry of Labour as part of the investigation into his death.

Long-term care facilities across the country have been hard hit by the COVID-19 pandemic, with numerous deaths of health care workers.

“The death of even one health care worker from COVID-19 is unacceptable. The CFNU will continue fighting to ensure all frontline workers have the protections they need to remain safe and healthy,” said Silas.

Nurses across Canada are extending their sincere condolences to Brian’s family, friends, colleagues and ONA.